In rural Syria, ancient Roman wells are still in use. For a population that has to endure a tragic conflict on a daily basis, wells are often the only way to survive.
Due to the destruction of the water supply infrastructure and the escape of qualified labour, access to fresh and healthy water is extremely difficult. According to 45-year-old farmer Jameel from the Al-Ghab region, before the outbreak of the civil war, there were rarely problems with access to drinking water.
In 2013, UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) supported the Syrians in the reconstruction of 36 wells, thanks to which hundreds of rural households could support themselves and quench their thirst. Reusing ancient wells is much cheaper and more effective than digging a new one. What’s more, no heavy equipment is needed for renovation.
For Jameel, the ability to use the well also gives him the opportunity to produce fruit and vegetables and then sell them on the market. He used to spend money to buy fresh water; now they can be used to purchase seeds and develop the farm.
